What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to establish a democratic definition of poverty specifically for the South African context.

July 3, 2026Open Access

Developing a democratic definition of poverty in South Africa

Key Points

This research aims to establish a democratic definition of poverty specifically for the South African context.
Conducted quantitative research in South Africa in 2005.
Explored consensus among different groups regarding the definition of poverty.
Analyzed how adaptive preferences might influence perceptions of poverty.
Identified a new definition of poverty reflecting diverse perspectives in South Africa.
Revealed that bounded realities could deflate the understanding of poverty.
Showed that perceptions of poverty may evolve, especially among younger generations.

Abstract

The democratic approach to defining poverty is set in its theoretical context. The relevance of the approach for South Africa is discussed, and a definition is presented which emerges from quantitative research undertaken in South Africa in 2005. Various issues are considered in relation to the South African case, in particular the extent and nature of consensus across different groups; evidence of whether bounded realities and adaptive preferences could be deflating the definition; and a consideration of how the definition may change over time, particularly in relation to transitional necessities and the views of young people.

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